BCCI planning structural shake-up through mega auction
The five franchises in the Women’s Premier League (WPL) are bracing for a significant overhaul, as the BCCI prepares to conduct a mega auction ahead of the 2026 season. The move is expected to introduce sweeping changes across team rosters and auction dynamics, affecting the strategic core of every side.
According to ESPNcricinfo, franchises have been informally informed about the auction, which is likely to take place in late November. While the WPL committee is yet to finalise specific auction rules and retentions, key aspects under discussion include the number of players each team can retain, the auction purse, retention slabs, and right-to-match (RTM) card availability.
Franchises divided on the timing of revamp
While the WPL has grown into the most lucrative women’s cricket property globally since its 2023 launch, the decision to hold a mega auction has not been universally welcomed. Mumbai Indians, Royal Challengers Bangalore, and Delhi Capitals—three of the more consistent teams—are reportedly not in favour of dismantling squads they’ve built over three seasons.
These franchises have argued that such a shake-up could slow the momentum they’ve gained in developing strong team brands. Mumbai Indians won the inaugural title in 2023 and again in 2025, while RCB lifted the trophy in 2024. Delhi Capitals, though reaching all three finals, are yet to win a championship.
In contrast, Gujarat Giants and UP Warriorz—both of whom have yet to reach a WPL final—support the mega auction. These franchises are pushing for the chance to rebuild, arguing that more competitive balance is needed for the overall growth of the league. A WPL official echoed this sentiment, noting that the long-term strength of the tournament requires all five teams to be competitive.
Retention rules and RTM framework yet to be finalised
One of the key decisions still pending is the exact number of players each team will be allowed to retain. While some franchises are lobbying to keep six or seven players, the WPL is reportedly leaning toward a cap of five retentions. The specifics—such as how many of these can be capped or uncapped players—are still under discussion.
The use of RTMs, a mechanism that allows teams to buy back players during the auction by matching the highest bid, is also on the table. While this has been used in the IPL, the WPL has never implemented the RTM option before.
In the 2025 IPL mega auction, franchises were allowed up to six total retentions, including a maximum of five capped players (Indian or overseas) and two uncapped Indian players. A similar structure could be adopted for the WPL, pending official confirmation.
Financials highlight league’s growing stature
The WPL has established itself as a financial gamechanger in women’s cricket. In 2023, Viacom 18 acquired broadcast rights for ₹951 crore (approx. US$107.2 million) for the 2023–2027 cycle. That translates to a per-match value of ₹7.09 crore (approx. US$799k).
Star India batter Smriti Mandhana remains the most expensive player in WPL history. At the inaugural auction, she was bought by RCB for ₹3.2 crore (approx. US$361k), underlining the growing financial incentives for elite women cricketers in the league.
